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Crispy Bang Bang Tofu Recipe with Best Creamy Sauce

crispy bang bang tofu - featured image

Crispy, golden-brown tofu bites with a heavenly crunch, drizzled with a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this vegetarian dish is quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 14-ounce block of extra-firm tofu (pressed and cut into cubes)
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil (like vegetable or avocado oil for frying)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo for a plant-based option)
  • 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey (or agave syrup for a vegan alternative)
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • Chopped green onions (optional)
  • Sesame seeds (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture by placing it between paper towels and setting a heavy object on top. Let it press for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Cut the pressed tofu into evenly-sized cubes. In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Toss the tofu cubes in the mixture, coating them evenly.
  3. Prepare the sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, honey, sriracha, and rice vinegar until smooth. Adjust the spice level to taste.
  4. Heat the oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
  5. Transfer the cooked tofu to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce generously over the tofu or serve it on the side for dipping.
  6. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately while the tofu is still warm and crispy.

Notes

[‘Pressing the tofu is crucial for achieving a crispy texture.’, ‘Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or avocado oil.’, ‘Adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the amount of sriracha.’, ‘Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Crispy tofu, Bang Bang sauce, vegetarian recipe, quick dinner, easy tofu recipe, plant-based, spicy sauce, tofu appetizer